1939 Stradolin Jr Archtop A-Style Mandolin
Update 2020: this came back for trade/resale, so I've updated the post with new pics, a new video, and minor updated information. Back to the original post...
Just about every Stradolin I've played has punched above its weight both in tone, volume, and playability after work. This Junior model, with its all-ply body, is no exception. It's got oomph and a good, clear, focused tone. It sounds bluegrassy and crisp with just enough lower-mids warmth to give it some presence. It's dated to February 6th, 1939 with a stamp on the inside. I wish more manufacturers were so clear on their production dates! As far as makers go -- I'm under the impression that Stradolins were probably made by the United factory in New Jersey.
Just about every Stradolin I've played has punched above its weight both in tone, volume, and playability after work. This Junior model, with its all-ply body, is no exception. It's got oomph and a good, clear, focused tone. It sounds bluegrassy and crisp with just enough lower-mids warmth to give it some presence. It's dated to February 6th, 1939 with a stamp on the inside. I wish more manufacturers were so clear on their production dates! As far as makers go -- I'm under the impression that Stradolins were probably made by the United factory in New Jersey.
Repairs included: a fret level/dress, side dots install, compensation and a little recutting of the bridge, cleaning, replacement (vintage-correct) screws for one side of the original tuners, and two "relic" strap buttons installed at the heel and tailpiece. Aside from a missing tailpiece cover, the instrument is all-original and in good order -- it even has its original chip case. The neck had a hair of warp in it and that effect was removed via the fret level/dress.
Setup notes: the neck is straight, action is spot-on 1/16" at the 12th fret (with adjustment room), and strings are 34w-10 gauges.
Condition notes: there's average usewear throughout with mild scratches, nicks, and small dings here and there. The tailpiece cover is missing.
Setup notes: the neck is straight, action is spot-on 1/16" at the 12th fret (with adjustment room), and strings are 34w-10 gauges.
Scale length: 13 3/4"
Nut width: 1 3/16"
String spacing at nut: 15/16"
String spacing at bridge: 1 11/16"
Body length: 12 5/8"
Lower bout width: 9 3/4"
Side depth at deepest: 2" + arched top/back
Top wood: ply spruce
Back/sides wood: ply birch, faux-flame paint job
Neck wood: maple (or poplar?)
Fretboard: rosewood
Bridge: adjustable rosewood
Neck feel: mediu C-shape, flat board, small frets
Condition notes: there's average usewear throughout with mild scratches, nicks, and small dings here and there. The tailpiece cover is missing.
It comes with: its original chip case, some old string packets, and a simple leather strap.
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